Located in the heart of the Avignon, Cavaillon and Carpentras triangle, this little town of the Vaucluse is nicknamed the « Venise Comtadine ».
Venice is mentioned because the city has several canals with clear water coming directly from the nearby Fontaine-de-Vaucluse.
L’Isle sur la Sorgue was part of the Popes’ state, the Comtat Venaissin.
The resurgence of the Fontaine-de-Vaucluse flows strongly and the current brings transparent water to Isle-sur-Sorgue, in the place called « Partage des eaux ». (Water divide)
The Sorgue is separated into two branches which are in turn subdivided into many small canals which are discovered while walking in the ancient center of the city.
The Sorgue gives it an undeniable charm and, in the summer a very appreciated feeling of coolness.
One does not tire of the show offered by the paddle wheels, by the ducks floating serenely on the water and on the widest parts of the river, of watching with pleasure the kayakers train.
In all seasons, especially outside the summer, it is very pleasant to stroll in Isle-sur-Sorgue on a Sunday.
Walk the market, buy fruits, vegetables, cheese, fish and cold cuts, buy flowers and honey, olives and tapenade then go drink a coffee on the Place de l’Eglise in the historical “Cafe de France” or in the brand new tea salon-second hand store “La Maison Rouge”.
Plan lunch in one of the city’s many restaurants or near the water divide and spend the afternoon strolling along the Sorgue and second hand stores, go and see the 7 villages of antique dealers and some 350 shops...
There is also a rich heritage to discover here, from the Collégiale Notre Dame des anges to the Tour d’Argent, the Donadeï de Campredon hotel, Center of Contemporary Art …
Forty years ago the brocante (second-hand goods trade) was born in Isle-sur-Sorgue...
In 1966, the first Foire à la brocante took place ; it was the first in the province and opened this small Provencal city to a new economic orientation ; it was a turning point for this old city of fishermen, wool workers, paper makers and farmers who all , or almost all, would disappear.
Isle-sur-Sorgue is today on the second rank of French platforms for the antiques trade after Paris (St. Ouen) and on the 3rd rank for Europe after London and Saint-Ouen.
One comes from all over the world to find a desired piece: furniture, paintings and also those small objects loved by collectors and lovers of old objects. Twice a year, for Easter and on August 15th, it is the “foire la brocante” and the number of exhibitors and visitors is even larger.
Rene Char, born in 1907, mention his city of birth in several poems.
Plaisirs et Maisons de Provence suggests that you stay in one of its vacation rentals in Provence to discover this charming small city.
